Economic Development

The City of Graham is located along the Interstate 40/85 corridor in central North Carolina. As the county seat, the City has a charming intact Lancaster Square from the early 1900’s which centers our Downtown. Our downtown is undergoing a resurgence, with restaurants, breweries, and new retail venues opening regularly. Graham’s growing rapidly and with more than 15,000 residents, we are centered between the Triangle and Triad, with access to both markets within an hour’s drive.

Businesses interested in an educated workforce have distinct advantages due to the stature of higher education opportunities in central North Carolina, as well as proximity to Elon University and Alamance Community College. Our community partners take pride in collaborating together to advance public art, community events, community wellness, and addressing other social needs. Graham has a variety of old mill structures, vacant industrial property, and available commercial property with exceptional highway visibility.

For more information on how you or your business can become part of our community, contact the City’s Planning Director or Downtown Development Coordinator.

The Planning Department will coordinate predevelopment meetings with the City's departments responsible for helping businesses obtain the necessary permitting, zoning, and licensing approvals required to establish a business in Graham.